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definite

 - 2 dictionary results

def⋅i⋅nite

[def-uh-nit]
–adjective
1. clearly defined or determined; not vague or general; fixed; precise; exact: a definite quantity; definite directions.
2. having fixed limits; bounded with precision: a definite area.
3. positive; certain; sure: It is definite that he will take the job.
4. defining; limiting.
5. Botany. (of an inflorescence) determinate.

Origin:
1520–30; < L dēfīnītus limited, precise, ptp. of dēfīnīre; see define, -ite 2


def⋅i⋅nite⋅ness, noun


1. specific, particular. 2. well-defined.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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def·i·nite   (děf'ə-nĭt)   
adj.  
  1. Having distinct limits: definite restrictions on the sale of alcohol.

  2. Indisputable; certain: a definite victory.

  3. Clearly defined; explicitly precise: a definite statement of the terms of the will. See Synonyms at explicit.

  4. Grammar Limiting or particularizing.

  5. Botany

    1. Of a specified number not exceeding 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.

    2. Cymose; determinate.


[Middle English diffinite, defined, from Latin dēfīnītus, past participle of dēfīnīre, to define; see define.]
def'i·nite·ly adv., def'i·nite·ness n.
Usage Note: Definite and definitive both apply to what is precisely defined or explicitly set forth. But definitive most often refers specifically to a judgment or description that serves as a standard or reference point for others, as in the definitive decision of the court (which sets forth a final resolution of a judicial matter) or the definitive biography of Nelson (that is, the biography that sets the standard against which all other accounts of Nelson's life must be measured).
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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